High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe

Looking for a delicious, high-protein meal that’s both filling and satisfying? This High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is the perfect choice! 🧑‍🍳 With a creamy sauce, tender beef, and hearty pasta, this dish combines the best of both worlds—flavor and nutrition.

Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for a family dinner, or need a comforting plate to fuel your day, this recipe has you covered. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and is perfect for anyone who loves a creamy, protein-packed dish. 😍🍽️

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Packed with Protein – A great way to meet your protein needs while enjoying a comforting meal!
✅ Rich and Creamy Sauce – Smooth, velvety sauce that coats the pasta and beef perfectly.
✅ Quick and Easy – This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes.
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep – Makes a great lunch or dinner for the week ahead!
✅ Customizable – Add vegetables or spice it up with chili flakes for a personalized touch. 🌶️

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🛒 Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this hearty, high-protein creamy beef pasta:

🍖 For the Beef and Pasta:

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef – High in protein and flavor 🐄
• 12 oz (340g) pasta – Penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well 🍝
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the beef 🫒
• 1 medium onion – Finely chopped 🧅
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced 🧄
• Salt and pepper – To taste 🧂

🧀 For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream – For richness and creaminess 🥛
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth – Adds depth of flavor 🍲
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – For a cheesy kick 🧀
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Enhances the flavor of the sauce 🍅
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – Adds aromatic herb flavor 🌿
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For extra garlic flavor (optional) 🧄
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, for a spicy punch 🌶️

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💡 Substitutions & Variations

• Meat Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Cheese Choices: Use mozzarella or cheddar cheese if you prefer a different cheese flavor.
• Pasta Variations: Opt for whole-wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
• Make it Spicy: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to turn up the heat! 🔥

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

🔥 Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes until al dente.

Pro Tip: Save 1 cup of pasta water before draining to use in the sauce for added creaminess and flavor! 💧

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🔥 Step 2: Brown the Beef

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil, then sauté the onion for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Pro Tip: If you prefer leaner beef, opt for 90% lean ground beef to reduce the fat content. 🥩

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🔥 Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

To the skillet with the browned beef, add the heavy cream, beef broth, and tomato paste. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Add the garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture.

Pro Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the saved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. 💧

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🔥 Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.

Pro Tip: If your skillet is too small, you can transfer the pasta and sauce to a large bowl to mix.

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🔥 Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the creamy beef pasta on plates and top with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. 🌿

Pro Tip: For added crunch, top with toasted breadcrumbs or a sprinkle of crushed nuts like walnuts! 🥜

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This high-protein creamy beef pasta is a complete meal on its own, but here are some fun ways to serve it:

🥗 With a Salad

Pair the pasta with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the creamy sauce. A side of Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette would be perfect.

🍞 With Garlic Bread

Serve with warm garlic bread on the side for extra flavor and texture. The crispy bread pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce!

🌿 With Roasted Vegetables

For an added nutritional boost, serve your pasta with some roasted vegetables, like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

📦 Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This creamy beef pasta holds up well in the fridge, and the flavors actually improve the next day!

🔥 Reheating Instructions

To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to bring back the creaminess. Alternatively, use the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heating.

Pro Tip: If reheating from the fridge, you may need to add a bit more liquid as the sauce thickens when it cools down.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1️⃣ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare the entire dish, then store it in the fridge. It’s great for meal prep and reheats well.

2️⃣ Can I make this with ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works perfectly in this recipe. Just be mindful that it’s a bit milder in flavor than beef.

3️⃣ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make the recipe gluten-free, simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety. There are many great gluten-free options available!

4️⃣ Can I freeze this creamy beef pasta?

Yes, you can freeze it! Store the pasta in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as directed.

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🍲 Conclusion – A Creamy, Protein-Packed Delight!

This High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta is a winning combination of creamy sauce, tender beef, and pasta, all packed with protein to keep you fueled and satisfied. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing your meals for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. 💯

With easy-to-find ingredients, simple steps, and loads of flavor, it’s a dish everyone will love. So grab your apron and start cooking today! 😋🔥